Probationary (Tenure-Track) Faculty Position in Physics & Astronomy

The Department of Physics & Astronomy in the Faculty of Science at Western University is pleased to announce a search for a full-time, probationary (tenure-track) position at the rank of Assistant Professor. The salary will be commensurate with the successful applicant’s qualifications and experience. The anticipated start date will be July 1, 2022.

Western recognizes that our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion is central to the University’s mandate as a research-intensive institution of higher learning. As a community leader we understand that our commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization are mutually supporting and contribute to our pursuit of research excellence. The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression. Candidates are also expected to show evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment demonstrated through the application materials.

Applicants must possess a PhD in Physics or Astronomy, or a closely related area. The successful candidate will have a research focus in Physics or Astronomy, broadly defined. They will have an outstanding record of research in the form of publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, awards, invited talks and other scholarly achievements, as appropriate for their career path and stage. Evidence of research impact and an emerging international research reputation will be considered strong assets, as will the ability to attract external research funding.

The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to teaching and research supervision at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Demonstrated and/or potential for effectiveness in teaching and mentorship is important and applicants should provide evidence of other high-impact learning experiences.

The successful candidate will be expected to engage in service to the University and the profession. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, as well as evidence of leadership potential, will be considered assets.

With annual research funding exceeding $220 million, and an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is a research-intensive department in Western's Faculty of Science, and has expertise in both theoretical and experimental astronomy and physics. The Department is responsible for both undergraduate and graduate programs in physics and astronomy. The Department is home to 35 full-time faculty members, with most engaged in externally-funded, theoretical or laboratory- based scientific research.

A complete application consists of:

  • Cover letter addressing how the candidate’s expertise fits this position and complements existing strengths in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Western
  • Curriculum vitae including publication list
  • Statement of experience and plans for advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in post- secondary education, community-based or other professional settings in physics and astronomy, preferably no more than 2 pages
  • Research statement, preferably three pages or less highlighting your past, current, and future research plans
  • Statement on your teaching and mentoring philosophy or experience,
  • Contact information for 3 letters of reference
  • Completed application form, available at https://www.uwo.ca/facultyrelations/pdf/full-time-application-form.pdf
  • Western recognizes the potential impact that career interruptions can have on a candidate’s record of research achievement and potential candidates are encouraged to explain within their application the impact that career interruptions have had and to submit a full career or extended CV
  • Applicants who would like to self-identify in one the designated groups can choose to self- identify in their cover letter

Effective September 7, 2021, all employees and visitors to campus are required to comply with Western’s COVID-19 Vaccination Policy.

The Application package can be submitted via email in a single PDF file to:

Dr. Robert Sica, Department and Search Committee Chair
Department of Physics & Astronomy, Western University
London Ontario, Canada
E-mail: p-a.search@uwo.ca

Consideration of applications will begin on January 20, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Positions are subject to budget approval. Applicants should have fluent written and oral communication skills in English. The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

In accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact

Emily Adams at eadams29@uwo.ca